Educators Awarded $1.5M to Prepare ESL Students for Health Jobs
The College of Continuing Education has received a state grant to build English fluency among those studying to enter healthcare.
The San Diego College of Continuing Education has been awarded nearly $1.5 million as part of a three-year effort to build English fluency among those studying to enter healthcare.
Students are being recruited from English as a Second Language courses at SDCCE, San Diego Unified School District campuses and other districts for ophthalmic and optical technician programs, officials said Friday.
The Centers of Excellence for Labor Market Information estimates that there will be nearly 8,000 jobs for optical technicians, ophthalmic assistants and certified nursing assistants in the region each year through 2028.
“With careful planning, collaboration, and structured program delivery, we will help transform the landscape of healthcare education for English language learners in San Diego, as well as help satisfy the demand for CNAs, optical technicians and ophthalmic assistants,” said SDCCE President Tina M. King.
The funding, through the English Language Learner Healthcare Pathway Grant, comes from the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office, along with the state Department of Education. SDCCE received an initial $1 million grant earlier this year.
The funding will go toward hiring instructors, developing a curriculum and new training materials. Enrolled students will participate in hands-on workshops intended to demonstrate English skills in a healthcare setting.
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